1974 Mazda 818 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda 818 (68 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mazda 818 | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 818 | Passat |
Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 92 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2560 mm |